The Valsalva Maneuver stef bradford, PhD, SSC | January 06, 2016 Stef Bradford, Ph.D., discusses the role of the Valsalva Maneuver (holding your breath against a closed glotis) in strength training and why it is not only safe, but why you should do it. Recorded at the December 2015 Starting Strength Seminar held at the Wichita Falls Athletic Club in Wichita Falls, TX.